India: Muslim and Hindu activists to stage demonstrations in New Delhi Nov. 24 /update 1

Muslim and Hindu activists are planning to stage demonstrations in New Delhi on Nov. 24. Muslim activists will reportedly gather at Ramlila Ground to protest perceived offenses against religious symbols, while Hindu activists plan to stage a counterprotest in the area and recite a devotional hymn. Muslim activists are also planning to stage a march to New Delhi on the same day to denounce the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill, which they claim could lead to the seizure of community properties. The starting times of the Ramlila Ground demonstrations and the protest march were not immediately clear. Several thousand people may participate in the protests.

Related demonstrations could occur at other locations in New Delhi on the same day, and additional counterdemonstrations may materialize on short notice. Potential gathering sites include prominent government buildings, thoroughfares, Jantar Mantar, and other public squares. Authorities will almost certainly monitor any such rallies and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds.

Depending on operational needs, officials could implement enhanced security restrictions. Clashes between police and activists and between members of opposing groups are possible. Isolated security incidents cannot be ruled out. Associated localized business and transport disruptions are highly likely.